[asha]

Give parents accurate information in a nonjudgmental way. Good documentation of your observations and knowledge of typical child development will help you to share the information objectively talking to parents about their Childs delay in growth can be a sensitive subject, so remaining respectful and understanding is beneficial to the conversation. Having ways you plan on improving their Childs development.

[Jenna]

I think the best thing to do is be honest and clear about developmental screening. I think giving parents accurate information in a nonjudgmental way will help the conversation and be sure the point is getting across. I also think it’s important to be open to parents suggestions and feedback.

[Sarah Ploium]

A way I would approach a parent and talk about a sensitive topics have a list of what you have observations over a set time and so you can be precise with the family. Another helpful tip could be talking to a coworker or boss who has also observed this and how they would approach it. But overall there needs to be a clear message about what their child is specifically struggling with while being respectful and sensitive about this topic.

[Shannon MacKenzie]

It is paramount to prepare what you are going to say before the meeting. Bring documentation of your observations, and have plenty of examples of areas where they are doing well. When the family knows you have a well-rounded view of your child, they are more likely to trust that you have the child’s best interests at heart. For many parents, these conversations can trigger emotions tied to their own experiences with school – it is important to be sensitive to their emotions. Even parents who deny or seem to ignore red flags can believe that by avoiding screenings, they are protecting their child. Using objective language will show respect for the child, and demonstrate your professionalism. Part of making things less scary and as easy as possible could be discussing options and making a plan for the next step – who do they need to talk to, where do they need to go, what do they need (documents, insurance, etc.), and what is a realistic time table for when this needs to happen.

[Tenlee]

What are some good ways to approach a parent about the developmental screening of their child?

Knowing what you are going to say before you talk to the parent and being prepared. This means having different documents that can help to back up your claim. Along with some examples to help for a plan with the parent to get the child the help it needs so that they can succeed.

[Sydney Weinberger]

Prepare, have good evidence to support your concerns to help parents know that you are not making something up or coming from a judgement place. Created good relationships with parents right away so that when you have to have these difficult conversations, there is already established trust and rapport.

[Anna]

A few good ways to approach a parent about developmental screening of their child would to first of all have good documentation of observations of the knowledge of child development, which can help share the information to the parents objectively rather than being judgmental. Before sitting down to talk to the parents, think of the parents prospective, and also make sure to validate, or keep in mind their emotions during this process, they may be more open to hear your concerns if you appeal to them first about their emotions along with some of the strengths the child has developed as well, rather than focusing on mainly the developmental screening. Also, it may not be a bad idea to not only have a list of resources on hand during this meeting, but before this meeting, you could go over key concepts with a staff member who had also observed the child. Mainly, share the collected data based on evidence collected, not personal opinion. Most of all, keep the child’s information confidential, and if need be, stress that to the parents.

[Andrea]

Documation and evolutions, have meetings with past teachers then have a conference with parents and provide resources if needed

[Tania Flores]

Be honest but kind. Give parents accurate information in a nonjudgmental way.Be open to trying a parent’s suggestions.

[Laysha DeDios]

You could start by making a list of what you wanted to discuss with the parents. While at the same time using positive negative positive. The parent might get spooked by hearing their child isn’t meeting the expectations, to make it easier, we can add more information about solutions we could work on wor try for the child’s success. Also reassuring the parents that there is always room for improvement and this weak points do not affect their strong skills.

[Autumn]

At my learning center, the lead teachers have to fill out developmental milestone papers each month for each child. This would be a great way to start the conversation with a parent about the developmental screening of their child. You could bring the sheet with you can say “Hey, I just wanted to show you your child’s developmental milestones, and I noticed they don’t seem as confident in this one aspect. Is this something they do or say at home?” And if the parent says no, usually they elaborate on it and will mention if it is a concern to them if their child needs to get screened. I believe our school director sees these papers, so if something was really concerning, a teacher could talk to the director, and the director could talk to the parents about it.

[Samantha Lucey]

Coming from personal experience of having a developmentally challenged kid myself, I appreciated the help and the observation from others. I would be approaching the parents with an understanding and knowledge from my journey. It can be painful to talk about and have brought up, but positive reinforcement to the parents is a good place to start. Let them know they aren’t the only ones out there, that a lot of kids have harder times, and finding out what your kid needs and how to help them develop and grow in the best way possible, to give them the tools they’ll need as they grow up and live their own life.

[Liwen Huang]

Consider the family’s culture and background. You should address the topics respectfully and objectively. The data will show if a child is falling behind but giving your opinion will show that you are biased.

[allie]

Approaching parents about developmental screening for their child requires sensitivity, clear communication, and a collaborative approach. Here are some good ways to approach parents about this important topic:

1. Establish Trust: Begin by building rapport and establishing a trusting relationship with the parent. Let them know that you have their child’s best interests at heart and that you value their input and involvement in their child’s development.

2. Provide Information: Educate the parent about the purpose and benefits of developmental screening. Explain that screening can help identify potential developmental delays or concerns early on, allowing for timely intervention and support. Assure them that screening is a standard practice recommended for all children to ensure they reach their full potential.

3. Normalize the Process: Emphasize that developmental screening is a routine part of well-child care and is not necessarily indicative of any problems. Encourage the parent to view it as a proactive measure to monitor their child’s growth and development, similar to other routine health checks.

4. Offer Support: Reassure the parent that you are available to address any questions or concerns they may have about the screening process. Let them know that you are there to support them every step of the way and that you will work together to ensure their child receives the best possible care.

5. Highlight Benefits: Highlight the potential benefits of early intervention and support for children who may have developmental delays. Explain that identifying issues early can lead to more effective interventions and better outcomes for the child in the long run.

6. Encourage Participation: Encourage the parent to actively participate in the screening process and to share any observations or concerns they may have about their child’s development. Let them know that their input is valuable and will help ensure a comprehensive assessment of their child’s needs.

7. Respect Parental Choice: Respect the parent’s decision whether or not to proceed with developmental screening. Offer resources and information to help them make an informed decision, but ultimately honor their right to choose what they feel is best for their child.

8. Follow Up: Follow up with the parent after the screening to discuss the results and any next steps that may be recommended based on the findings. Offer ongoing support and guidance as needed throughout the process.

By approaching parents about developmental screening with empathy, respect, and support, you can help them feel empowered and confident in making decisions that promote their child’s overall well-being and development.

[Alexis]

a good way to approach parents about a screening is to definitely think about everything before talking to them. Have a script and have all the facts. Make sure to think about how to handle any response the parents may have.

Also talk with your director before hand so they know the conversation is going to happen so they are aware and can help you.